Path

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Path

</dt>
1. Of a satellite, the projection of the orbital plane on the earth's surface, the locus of the satellite subpoint. </dd>
Since the earth is turning under the satellite, the path of a single orbital pass will not be a closed curve. Path and track are used interchangeably. On a cylindrical map projection, the path is a sine-shaped curve. </dd>
2. Of a meteor, the projection of the trajectory on the celestial sphere, as seen by the observer. </dd>
3. = flightpath. </dd>

References

This article is based on NASA's Dictionary of Technical Terms for Aerospace Use